Gabrielle Union has long established herself as a force for good by condemning racist behavior, supporting diversity, and preaching the importance of being oneself.

Union's philosophy is no different when it comes to raising her stepchildren, Ziah and Zaya, and her daughter, Carvia James, whom she has with husband Dwayne Wade.

Since Zaya came out as trans at age 12 (she is now 14), Union and Wade have been the most supportive and loving parents.

When asked in an interview with BuzzFeed for advice for parents struggling with accepting an LGBTQ+ child, she found the perfect words to describe it.

"When our children show up, it's our job to believe them when they tell us who they are, not to impose our dreams, hopes, fears, and desires on them. It is our job to be loving, caring, and protective guides for our children, but their lives are their lives and we must respect that." He added, "We believe in not shaming them for existing. It is bizarre, cruel, and harmful."

The "Cheaper by the Dozen" actress also explained why she and Wade strive to model supportive parenting.

"For us, it's important to live and love out loud. We didn't quite understand why [supporting Zaya's trans identity] was so important." [But it's a thing, and a lot of people need role models. They need that representation. Yes, we post family, we live out loud, we love out loud, and we speak out loud, and when things are not where they should be, if each situation calls for us to be leaders, then we should be leaders, no matter what the situation is."